‘Liam brought skill and passion to his games’ – President leads tributes to soccer star Miller
ROY KEANE was among the thousands of mourners who defied freezing temperatures and snow showers to pay tribute to tragic football star Liam Miller (36).
The former Ireland, Manchester United, Celtic and Cork City star lost a battle against pancreatic cancer on
Friday.
Thousands queued last night at Crowley’s funeral home in Ballincollig, Co Cork, to pay their respects – many wearing scarves and shirts of the clubs the Cork-born midfielder played with during his career.
His wife Clare, and children Kory, Leo and Belle, led the mourners alongside his parents Billy and Bridie, and siblings Sean, Robby, Martin and Suzanne.
The guard of honour was provided last night by Ballincollig Schoolboys AFC – the club his sons play for.
The tributes came as it emerged Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill paid a special visit to Marymount Hospice in Cork last week to meet the footballer. Mr O’Neill was Celtic manager when the Corkman established himself as a regular in the senior side – and his performances prompted Manchester United to sign him in 2004.
President Michael D Higgins paid tribute to a player who “brought skill and passion to his games”.
The Football Association of Ireland held a minute’s silence before the Cork CityDundalk President’s Cup clash in memory of the star.
Former Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson said he was shocked by the death of the father of three.
“He was a good professional, who served our club in an excellent manner.
“On behalf of all my staff who worked with Liam at the time, we send our deepest sympathy to his family,” he said. As a mark of respect, Manchester United players wore black armbands yesterday for their Premier League clash with Newcastle.
Celtic players also observed a minute’s silence before their fixture on Saturday.
Former Manchester United, Real Madrid and LA Galaxy star David Beckham also paid tribute to the Corkman.